Gjende

Gjende is a long glacial lake in Jotunheimen National Park in Innlandet county, Norway, known for its striking green colour and mountain scenery. It is a central natural feature for hiking and outdoor activity in Jotunheimen.

The lake extends roughly 18 km and is framed by steep mountain slopes, including the famous Besseggen ridge that separates Gjende from neighbouring Bessvatnet and is a major day hike offering panoramic views. Mountain lodges at Gjendesheim and Memurubu provide boat landings, accommodation and access to trails; a ferry runs seasonally to connect trailheads.

Gjende and its surrounding landscape were shaped by glacial activity during the last Ice Age; the area has long been used for mountain pasture and, more recently, for outdoor recreation and hiking infrastructure established in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Located in the heart of Jotunheimen National Park in central southern Norway, Gjende lies amid high peaks in Innlandet county and is accessed from mountain roads and trailheads that connect to nearby villages and mountain lodges.

• Size and colour: The lake is about 18 km long and sits at an elevation close to 985 m above sea level, with a distinctive jade-green colour caused by glacial rock flour.
• Boat service: A regular summer ferry service operates on the lake between Gjendesheim and Memurubu, shortening access to ridge hikes such as Besseggen.

What to See #

• Besseggen ridge: Besseggen is the steep ridge between Gjende and the adjacent lake Bessvatnet, forming a popular 7-8 hour traverse that gives panoramic views over Gjende's distinctive green water and the surrounding Jotunheimen peaks.
• Gjendesheim: Gjendesheim is the main mountain lodge and boat landing on the eastern end of the lake and serves as the usual start point for hikes and boat connections across the lake.
• Memurubu: Memurubu is a mountain lodge and shelter on the western shore that provides accommodation for hikers and a regular ferry stop on the lake's tourist boat route.